Working in Canada

If you're an international student and you want to work in Canada, you need to follow certain regulations and may require a work permit. Find out what rules to follow and, if needed, how to get a work permit.

Overview of permits required to work in Canada

Work experience can help you prepare for your career, gain exposure to the Canadian workplace, form a closer connection to the local community, and provide you with extra money.

As an international student, there are several types of work you can do in Canada. Some of them will require applying for a specific work permit. Use the table below to determine what type of work regulations you need to follow.

Type of work

Work permit required

On-campus

You do not need a work permit in order to work on campus while attending UBC, as your study permit gives you permission to accept on-campus employment as long as you’re registered in full-time studies. There are however, certain conditions you must observe to work on campus.

Off-campus (up to 20 hrs per week during regular study periods)

You do not need a work permit in order to work off campus while attending UBC, as your study permit gives you permission to accept off campus employment as long as you’re registered in full-time studies. There are, however, certain conditions you must observe to work off campus.

Co-op or internship (if the work is integral to your academic program)

Some volunteer positions may be considered work by CIC – for example, volunteering for a job that is normally performed by paid employees (photocopying, customer service, etc.) is considered work regardless of whether you are paid or not. Review the meaning of work according to the CIC definition to decide. If your volunteer position is considered work, you need to follow the relevant work regulations (e.g. on- or off-campus work conditions).

If your documents get lost or stolen

If your documents such as study or work permits are lost or stolen, you must request a replacement from CIC. Follow instructions on the CIC website, submit your application for replacement and a $30 processing fee, and expect your documents to arrive by mail in approximately two weeks. You may continue studying and/or working while your documents are being replaced. However, you should not leave Canada until you receive your replacement study or work permit.

If your passport has also been lost or stolen, you must replace it as well. If you had a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) in the lost or stolen passport, make sure you apply for a new TRV.